Description

This course will explore various kinds of information resources and services in a variety of settings by examining the principles, structure, methods, and significant development that shape these concerns. Further, it reviews the scope, organization and evaluation of major reference materials in print and digital form and examines emerging trends in the management of information services. It also includes discussions on the diverse range of user-interactions, the interactive process in question negotiations, searching strategies and skills how best to match appropriate resources to the user’s need via effective reference interviews.

Objectives

At the end of the course, the student will be able to:

1. Demonstrate a good understanding of the theory and practice of using basic information sources and information services;


2. Examine the scope, organization, evaluation, and understand the functions of major types of reference sources in print and digital form;


3. Recognize the impact of information technologies on reference services (networking, online databases, and the Internet) and be aware of technologies providing access to information sources;


4. Acquire ability to proficiently analyze reference inquiries in order to assess clients' information needs;


5. Understand the needs of particular user groups; identify sources and develop services appropriate to meet specific user needs;


6. Understand the critical function of reference interview, the interpersonal dimensions, questioning strategies and answering information enquiries;


7. To have the ability to compile high quality research guides and pathfinders in various academic areas;


8. To be aware of technologies providing access to information

Synopsis of the Course Content

1. Reference functions and essential reference services ;


2. Types of resources and their use: Encyclopedias, Biographical, Dictionaries, Ready Reference Sources, Geographical, Indexes in print and digital form;


3. Examination of major categories of reference materials and referral tools including print and online (structure, access, and evaluation);


4. User needs, information seeking behavior, and the information use patterns;


5. Search strategy, question negotiation, user instruction, and pathfinder development;


6. Bibliographic chain, Bibliographic control; Bibliographies;


7. Electronic /online sources and services; Internet searching

Lecturer

1. Ms. Lleuvelyn A. Cacha, Room BS2 (Annexe), Tel. 79676417, Email: lcacha@um.edu.my